Fayette County Circuit Court issues ruling regarding cadidate running for magistrate

FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS)—The Fayette County Circuit Court issued a ruling regarding a candidate running for Magistrate.

In an original complaint filed in the Circuit Court of Fayette County , magistrate candidate Amanda Davis is suing one of her opponents, Richard “Rick” Pannell Jr., for his chosen name on the ballot for what she claims is misleading to voters and the public. The complaint states that Richard “Rick” Pannell Jr., the son of incumbent Fayette Magistrate Richard “Rick” Pannell, has intentionally omitted “Jr.” from his name on the ballot and campaign materials to make voters believe they are voting for his father.

Judge Paul Blake heard arguments and ruled that Richard “Rick” Pannell, Jr. would not be removed from the ballot.  Blake states that removing Pannell Jr. from the upcoming election would be a very slippery slope, as it would essentially have the harsh and unintended effect of interfering with Fayette County voters.

Judge Blake ruled that Richard “Rick” Pannell Jr. would have to add Jr. to any campaign signs and material to ensure no confusion about his running and not his father, Rick Pannell Sr. The order also requires that Fayette County reprint all ballots to reflect Richard “Rick” Pannell Jr.

The judge also noted in his decision that Amanda Davis failed to establish that Richard “Rick” Pannell, Jr. committed intentional fraud by not putting Jr. by his name. Judge Blake noted that Richard “Rick” Pannel Jr. created some confusion, whether intentional or not.

Candidates currently seeking a seat for nonpartisan Fayette County Magistrate – Division 2 include:

Richard “Rick” Pannell Jr – Oak Hill
Amanda Davis – Fayetteville
Susie Worley-Jenkins – Minden
Shawn L. Campbell – Fayetteville